Chattanooga, TN – The City of Chattanooga is embarking on a revitalization of the iconic Walnut Street Bridge, ensuring its legacy as a treasured pedestrian landmark for generations to come. Beginning Monday, March 17, 2025, the bridge will close for an estimated 18 months to accommodate extensive renovations that enhance both its safety and historic aesthetic appeal. During this time, the bridge will be completely closed to all pedestrian traffic, except for select athletic events listed in the official renovation schedule.
To maintain connectivity between downtown and the North Shore, detours will be available via the Veteran’s Bridge and the Market Street Bridge. The Veteran’s Bridge detour, with its wider walkways, will feature artwork by artist Ebony Bolt
<https://www.walnutstreetbridge.com/post/city-of-chattanooga-announces-artist-selection-for-veterans-bridgeactivation-and-wayfinding-project>, enriching the pedestrian experience along the route. The artwork is currently being installed and will be ready to explore this weekend. Additional artwork will enhance the Veteran's Bridge route along Riverside Drive this summer. Additionally, the Chattanooga Area Regional Transportation Authority (CARTA) will launch a free Northshore Express
service to further improve access.
<https://www.walnutstreetbridge.com/pedestrian-detour-route>
This ambitious renovation project will address key structural, electrical,
and deck deficiencies while introducing modern enhancements to preserve the
bridge’s beauty and functionality. The upgrades will include refurbishing
the main water line, installing state-of-the-art LED lighting, upgrading
the electrical system with new cables, and replacing the existing decking
with durable and elegant Alaskan Yellow Cedar, selected for its natural
resistance to decay.
For the latest project updates and real-time alerts about detours and
closures, the City of Chattanooga encourages residents and visitors to:
Visit walnutstreetbridge.com and sign up for text updates. The website also
addresses frequently asked questions surrounding the project.
Download the “Walnut Street Bridge” mobile app, available now on the Apple
App Store and coming soon to Google Play.
This project reflects the city’s ongoing commitment to preserving and
enhancing its beloved public spaces. We appreciate the community’s patience
and excitement as we bring new life to our historic Walnut Street Bridge.